Integration of power and optics through cold plate for delivery to electronic and photonic integrated circuits

ABSTRACT

In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a cold plate comprising a first side and a second side, a photonic integrated circuit connected to a substrate positioned on the second side of the cold plate, and an optical path extending through the cold plate and optically coupled to the photonic integrated circuit for transmitting an optical signal between the photonic integrated circuit and the first side of the cold plate.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to power and optics integration, and more particularly, to power and optical signal distribution in an electronics and photonics package.

BACKGROUND

As ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) process nodes advance and device power continues to increase, delivering requisite power is becoming more challenging. Higher power distribution also presents additional thermal challenges. When the ASIC or other electronic integrated circuit is packaged with a cold plate, additional difficulties arise in delivering power to the electronic integrated circuit and optical signals to a photonic integrated circuit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of power distribution through Point-of-Load (POL) modules and transmission of optical signals.

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective of the POL modules and a cold plate comprising power blocks with power vias for delivery of power from the POL modules and an optical path for transmission of an optical signal through the cold plate, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional schematic of the POL modules and a substrate and die package interposed between two cold plates, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIGS. 4A-4D are cross-sectional schematics illustrating a fabrication process for creating the optical path through the cold plate, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating attachment of an optical path to the substrate and die package, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective illustrating a connector optically coupled to the optical path and electrically coupled to the POL module, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a perspective schematically illustrating details of the connector shown in FIG. 6 aligned with a cable and connector assembly, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 8A is an exploded perspective of an optical and electrical connector and cable and connector assembly, in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG. 8B is a perspective of the cable and connector assembly coupled to the optical and electrical connector of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an overview of a process for creating the optical path in the cold plate for integration of optics and power, and distribution through the cold plate, in accordance with one embodiment.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS Overview

In one embodiment, an apparatus generally comprises a cold plate comprising a first side and a second side, a photonic integrated circuit connected to a substrate positioned on the second side of the cold plate, and an optical path extending through the cold plate and optically coupled to the photonic integrated circuit for transmitting an optical signal between the photonic integrated circuit and the first side of the cold plate.

In one or more embodiments, the optical path comprises a waveguide for transmitting light through the cold plate and optics for directing light to or from the photonic integrated circuit. The apparatus may further comprise additional optics for directing light from the waveguide to a connector positioned on the first side of the cold plate. One or more of the waveguide and the optics may be defined by laser patterning.

In one or more embodiments, the optical path comprises an optical structure actively aligned to the photonic integrated circuit. In one or more embodiments, the optical path is passively aligned to the photonic integrated circuit.

In one or more embodiments, the optical path comprises an optical structure coupled to an alignment pin for aligning the optical structure with the photonic integrated circuit.

In one or more embodiments, the substrate comprises a printed circuit board and a glass interposer, and the optical path extends through the substrate.

In one or more embodiments, the optical path comprises at least one optical fiber.

In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a connector positioned on the first side of the cold plate and coupled to the optical path. The connector may comprise an optical interface and an electrical interface for connection to a cable comprising at least one optical fiber and at least one electrical wire. The connector may be configured for receiving multi-phase pulse power from the cable on a plurality of electrical wires.

In one or more embodiments, the cold plate comprises an electrical path for transmitting power through the cold plate to an electronic integrated circuit attached to the substrate. The apparatus may further comprise a connector optically coupled to the optical path, a first power bridge interconnecting the connector to a fixed point-of-load (POL) module, and a second power bridge interconnecting the fixed POL module to a regulated POL module positioned on the first side of the cold plate for transmitting power to the electrical path. The first power bridge may be configured to transmit multi-phase pulse power to the fixed POL module.

In another embodiment, an apparatus generally comprises a connector for receiving or transmitting an optical signal, an optical path coupled to the connector and a photonic integrated circuit, and a cold plate interposed between the connector and the photonic integrated circuit. The optical path extends through the cold plate.

In yet another embodiment, a method generally comprises attaching a substrate to a cold plate, the substrate comprising at least one photonic die connected thereto, and creating an optical path through the cold plate and the substrate. An optical signal is transmitted to or from the photonic die through the optical path in the cold plate and the substrate.

Further understanding of the features and advantages of the embodiments described herein may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the attached drawings.

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the embodiments. Descriptions of specific embodiments and applications are provided only as examples, and various modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. The general principles described herein may be applied to other applications without departing from the scope of the embodiments. Thus, the embodiments are not to be limited to those shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the embodiments have not been described in detail.

A power distribution system may be configured to deliver power from a point-of-load (POL) to an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) or other integrated circuit. As power requirements increase, additional thermal considerations may be needed. In package optic applications may present additional challenges including integration of optics and delivery of optical signals without impacting cooling systems.

One or more embodiments described herein provide integration of power and optics for delivery through a cooling plate to electronic and photonic integrated circuits (ICs) (die, ASIC, chip). As described in detail below, one or more electrical path and optical path are formed in the cold plate to allow power to pass from the POL to electronic components coupled to the substrate and optical signals to pass through the cold plate and substrate to photonic elements. The cold plate may comprise, for example, a power delivery block (e.g., PCB (Printed Circuit Board)) with one or more power vias for transferring power through the cold plate and one or more openings for defining an optical path. The optical path may comprise one or more optical elements (e.g., waveguide, mirror, or other optics) for transmitting an optical signal through the cold plate and directing the optical signal to or from the photonic integrated circuit. As described in detail below, the optical path may be coupled to a connector positioned on the cold plate for receiving or transmitting the optical signal. The connector may also be configured for receiving power (e.g., multi-phase pulse power), which may be delivered to the POL for distribution through the cold plate.

The embodiments described herein operate in the context of a data communications network including multiple network devices. The network may include any number of network devices in communication via any number of nodes (e.g., routers, switches, gateways, controllers, edge devices, access devices, aggregation devices, core nodes, intermediate nodes, power sourcing equipment, powered devices, or other network devices), which facilitate passage of data within the network. One or more of the network devices may comprise one or more power and optics distribution systems described herein. The network device may further include any combination of memory, processors, power supply units, and network interfaces.

Referring now to the drawings, and first to FIG. 1, a block diagram illustrating an example of power distribution through a POL power supply located on a board 10 is shown, in accordance with one embodiment. As described in detail below optics 11 is integrated with the power system and an optical path is created to transmit optical signals through the cold plate and substrate to or from a photonic chip 13 (photonic die, photonic integrated circuit, integrated optical circuit) integrating multiple photonic functions.

Power is delivered at element 12 to a plurality of POLs (POL modules (circuits), power components) 14 a, 14 c, 14 d, 14 e. In one example, pulse power at a voltage greater than 100V (e.g., 108V, 380V) or any other suitable voltage, is delivered to the fixed POL 14 a. The power source 12 may also deliver pulse power to POLs 14 c, 14 d, and 14 e (e.g., fixed POLs). In another example, the power source 12 delivers 54 VDC (or any other suitable voltage (e.g., intermediate bus voltage level selected based on overall system efficiency, routeability, and cost)) to POL modules 14 c, 14 d, 14 e. The fixed POL 14 a transfers power (e.g., at 54 VDC or other voltage) to the regulated POL (POL converter, POL regulator) 14 b, which distributes power to ASICs 16 (e.g., integrated circuit, die, chip, multi-chip module (MCM), and the like). As described below, the fixed POL 14 a may be connected to the regulated POL 14 b through a bus bar interconnect or any other suitable electrical connection. The regulated POL 14 b may provide, for example, 150 amp or greater output. Each power connection may also include 10 Mbps (or any other data rate) communications. In the example shown in FIG. 1, power is delivered from the regulated POL module 14 b to the ASICs 16 via a voltage rail. Power may be provided to the ASICs 16 in a multi-drop arrangement, for example.

It is to be understood that the term “POL module” as used herein may refer to various types of POL configurations, including, for example, discrete POLs and modules or power delivery block-based voltage regulator designs. Also, it may be noted that the POLs may be single phase or multi-phase POLs that may work together to deliver one or more output.

System components (POL modules, cold plates, electronic and photonic package (substrate and die package)) are connected to the board 10. The board 10 may comprise a printed circuit board or the components may be directly attached to sheet metal modules, a line card, or any other suitable support member. For example, a line card circuit board may be removed and the electronic package interconnected through fiber and copper connections at the ASIC edge.

As previously noted, pulse power may be supplied to one or more of the POL modules. The term “pulse power” (also referred to as “pulsed power”) as used herein refers to power that is delivered in a plurality of voltage pulses (sequence of voltage pulses) 18 a in which voltage varies between a very small voltage (e.g., close to 0V, 3V) during a pulse-off time 19 a and a larger voltage (e.g., ≥12V) during a pulse-on time 19 b. High voltage pulse power (high voltage pulses) (e.g., ≥56V, ≥60V, ≥300V) may be transmitted from power sourcing equipment (PSE) to a powered device (PD) for use in powering the powered device, whereas low voltage pulse power (low voltage pulses) (e.g., ˜12V, ˜24V, ≤30V, ≤56V) may be used over a short interval for start-up (e.g., initialization, synchronization, charging local energy storage, powering up a controller, testing, or any combination thereof). Pulse power transmissions may be through cables, transmission lines, bus bars, backplanes, PCBs, or power distribution systems, for example.

In one or more embodiments, the pulse power may be delivered in multiple phases (18 b, 18 c in FIG. 1), with the pulses offset from one another between phases to provide continuous power. One or more embodiments may use multi-phase pulse power to achieve less loss, with continuous uninterrupted power with overlapping phase pulses to a powered device, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/380,954 (“Multiple Phase Pulse Power in a Network Communications System”), filed Apr. 10, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

It is to be understood that the voltage, power, and current levels described herein are only provided as examples and power may be delivered at different levels (volts, amps, watts) than described herein without departing from the scope of the embodiments. Power may be received as ESP (Extended Safe Power) (also referred to as FMP (Fault Managed Power)) (e.g., pulse power, multi-phase pulse power, pulse power with fault detection and safety protection), PoE (Power over Ethernet), or in accordance with any current standard or future standard.

The term ESP (or FMP) as used herein refers to high power (e.g., >100 Watts (W)), high voltage (e.g., ≥56 Volts (V)) operation with pulse power delivered on one or more wires or wire pairs in a cable (e.g., Ethernet cable). In one or more embodiments, ESP includes fault detection (e.g., fault detection at initialization and between high voltage pulses), and pulse synchronization. As shown in FIG. 1, pulse power or multi-phase pulse power may be received at the fixed POL module 14 a. As described below with respect to FIG. 6, the pulse power may be received at a connector mounted on a cold plate and transmitted to the fixed POL module through an interconnect.

FIG. 2 is a perspective schematic illustrating a connection between a fixed POL 20 and a regulated POL 22, distribution of power through a cold plate 25, and transfer of optical data through the cold plate and a substrate and die package 21, in accordance with one embodiment. The fixed POL module 20 may provide input power to the regulated POL module 22 via an electrical connection 24 comprising, for example, a bus bar, wire, or other interconnect. For simplification, only one POL module 22 is shown connected to the cold plate 25, however, any number of POL modules may be connected to the cold plate. Each POL may provide a single voltage rail or multiple voltage rails, as shown in FIG. 1. In the example shown in FIG. 2, an optical path 23 extends through the cold plate 25 and substrate for transmitting optical signals through the cold plate.

In one or more embodiments, an apparatus comprises the cold plate 25 comprising a first side 27 a (upper surface as viewed in FIG. 2) and a second side 27 b (lower surface) opposite to the first side, a photonic integrated circuit (chip) 29 connected to the substrate (e.g., printed circuit board, interposer, printed circuit board and interposer) positioned on the second side of the cold plate, and the optical path 23 extending through the cold plate 25 and the substrate (extending into the substrate and die package 21) and optically coupled to the photonic integrated circuit for transmitting an optical signal between the first side of the cold plate and the photonic integrated circuit.

It should be noted that the terms lower, upper, bottom, top, below, above, horizontal, vertical, and the like, which may be used herein are relative terms dependent upon the orientation of the package and components and should not be interpreted in a limiting manner. These terms describe points of reference and do not limit the embodiments to any particular orientation or configuration.

Optical path 23 is created to allow light (indicated by arrow in optical path) to pass through the cold plate 25 and substrate 21 to reach the optical engine (photonic integrated circuit, chip, die) 29. The optical path 23 may comprise, for example, one or more waveguides or an opening for receiving fiber optics. In one or more embodiments, the optical path 23 may be configured for light, laser written waveguides in glass, free space optics, or optical fiber, for example. A cutout may be made in the cold plate and substrate with passageway 23 inserted therein to link POL module 22 and bus bar 24 to the photonic chip 29. In one example, optics are integrated with power delivery over bus bar 24. The optical path 23 may be aligned and optically coupled to the photonics die 29 and module 22 as shown in FIG. 2, or may interconnect with a connector having interlocking features, as described below with respect to FIGS. 6 and 8A. The optical path 23 may be attached to the chip 29 using active or passive alignment processes and adhesive, such as an index matching epoxy, as described below with respect to FIG. 5. As described below with respect to FIGS. 4A-4D, the optical path may also be coupled to an edge, top, or bottom of the die 29. Various coupling approaches may be used including, for example, edge coupling, vertical coupling, etc.

In one or more embodiments, the optical path 23 may be part of a dedicated cutout separate from the electronics as shown in FIG. 2. In one or more embodiments, the optical path and electrical path may be defined along the same cutout in the cold plate 25. For example, a piece of glass may be laser patterned with waveguides and plated with metal vias to form a combined optical path and electrical path. Also, more than one optical path 23 may be formed in the cold plate 25 and substrate to communicate with one or more photonic die 29.

In one or more embodiments, the optical path 23 may be constructed from an optical bulk material (e.g., SiO₂ or other suitable material) in which a plurality of waveguides and mirrors are defined, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/546,084 (“Periscope Optical Assembly”), filed on Aug. 20, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The optical path 23 may comprise an optical path structure (e.g., periscope optical assembly) comprising, for example, one or more waveguide, mirror, lens, optical grating, filter, or any combination thereof. The optics may be defined by various processes in the bulk material based on the refractive index and the angle of light passing from one region to another. For example, a waveguide may be defined to confine light to a predefined path in the bulk material, whereas optics (e.g., a mirror) may redirect light received in one direction to a second direction. Other optics may have other effects on light carried in the bulk material, such as a lens focusing/converging or diffusing/diverging incoming light, an optical grating splitting and diffracting light into several beams, a filter removing, blocking, attenuating, or polarizing certain wavelengths of light, etc. Laser patterning may be used to define paths of the waveguide and a physical or chemical etching process may be used to form the mirror. The mirror may be defined, for example, as three-dimensional reflective structures within the bulk material or the mirror may be defined via a reflective surface treatment. It may also be noted that the optical path 23 may be formed from one piece or multiple pieces combined together as described below with respect to FIGS. 4A-4D. It is to be understood that these are only examples and other processes may be used to define optics within the optical path 23 or other optical components may be used, without departing from the scope of the embodiments.

An example of a fabrication process for creating the optical path 23 in the cold plate and substrate is described below with respect to FIGS. 4A-4D.

As previously described, in addition to providing the optical path 23 through the cold plate 25, one or more electrical paths 28 may be created in the cold plate. As shown in the example of FIG. 2, the cold plate 25 comprises a plurality of power delivery blocks 26 each comprising a plurality of power vias (electrical paths) 28 for transmitting power through the cold plate, from the POL module 22 to an electronic package 21 (substrate and die package) (described below with respect to FIG. 3). Power is transmitted from a first side of the cold plate 25 (e.g., upper surface 27 a as shown in FIG. 2) to a second side (e.g., lower surface 27 b as shown in FIG. 2) of the cold plate opposite and generally parallel to the first side. In one or more embodiments, the power delivery block 26 comprises a small (miniature) power printed circuit board. Based on the application, other components may also be inserted into the cold plate 25 or strategically placed cutouts may be used.

The power delivery block 26 comprises a plurality of through holes (vias) 28, which extend through the entire thickness of the power delivery block (as shown in phantom in FIG. 2) and are plated along their interior surfaces. The through hole may, for example, be created using a drilling process and plated with a metallic material (e.g., copper or any conductive or metallic layer). The plating may effectively cover the barrel of the hole and create the electrical path 28 through the cold plate 25.

The term “power delivery block” as used herein may refer to any block of thermal and conductive material in which electrical paths (e.g., power vias) may be formed to allow for the passage of power directly through the cold plate 25. Although the term “printed circuit board” is used herein as an example of a substrate for the power delivery block 26, in other implementations the PCB may be replaced with other substrates (e.g., ceramic circuit boards) or other elements. Also, non-printed circuit boards may be used for the power delivery block 26. For example, a piece of glass may be laser patterned with waveguides and plated with metal vias to form a combined optical path and electrical path. Also, as previously noted, other components in addition to or instead of the PCB may be inserted into the cold plate 25.

The cold plate 25 may comprise, for example, liquid, gas, or multi-phase (multi-phase cold plate) based cooling. The through power vias 28 may deliver 10 amps per tube, for example, and may be cooled by the cold plate 25. In one or more embodiments, the cold plate 25 is formed with one or more openings for insertion of one or more power delivery blocks 26, which may be, for example, press fit into the cold plate 25. An epoxy resin or adhesive fill may be used to press and position the power delivery block 26 within the cold plate 25. The epoxy resin may be used to account for tolerances between the power delivery block 26 and cold plate opening. If the cold plate 25 utilizes cooling tubes or reservoirs, these are routed or positioned around the power delivery block and optical path openings. The cold plate 25 keeps a temperature rise low for the power vias 28, thereby maximizing current transfer from the POL 22 to the substrate and die package. In one example, the cold plate 25 is configured with multiple internal zones to maintain optical temperature below 75 degrees Celsius. It is to be understood that the cold plate and temperature described herein are only examples and other designs may be used to maintain cooling at different temperatures.

In one or more embodiments, the power block, power vias, and cold plate may be configured as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/743,371 (“Power Distribution from Point-of-Load With Cooling”), filed Jan. 15, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The power delivery blocks 26 and vias 28 formed therein extend through the cold plate 25 to provide power to the attached electronic package (substrate and die package) 21. For simplification, only a portion of the power delivery blocks 26 and vias 28 are shown in phantom extending through the cold plate 25. Also, the substrate and die package 21 is shown as a single block structure, but it is to be understood that the package may comprise one or more substrates with any number of components (e.g., electronic integrated circuit, ASIC, photonic integrated circuit, optical engine, die, chip, chiplet, FAU (Fiber Attachment (Array) Unit), CAU (Copper Attachment (Array) Unit)) attached thereto, as described below with respect to FIG. 3.

In one or more embodiments, an additional cold plate 31 may be used, with the substrate and die package 21 interposed between the two cold plates 25, 31 to provide additional cooling. It may be noted that use of the second cooling plate 31 is optional based on power and cooling requirements.

Also, it is to be understood that the cold plate may comprise any number of individual cold plates. For example, the cold plate may comprise two or more smaller cold plates with one or more of the power delivery block, electrical path, or optical path interposed therebetween.

In addition to passing power through the power delivery block 26, communications (e.g., control plane communications) may also pass through the power delivery block. In one or more embodiments, control communications for the regulated POL and for the ASIC to a system FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) may pass through the cold plate 25 or through ribbon cables. In one or more embodiments, communications may pass through communication vias (not shown) formed in the power delivery blocks, which may include both power vias and communication vias or only communication vias. In one example, lower speed communications may pass through the POL (e.g., 200 Mbps range). The cold plate 25 may include any combination of power delivery blocks with power vias, communication vias, or optical paths. Control plane communications may also be provided through separate communications elements (e.g., via ribbon cable or other means), which may be used to move control communications in and out of the package. In one or more embodiments full speed PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect express) or faster may be used. The cold plate 25 may be connected to any number or combination of POL modules 22 and communication modules.

It is to be understood that the configuration shown in FIG. 2 is only an example, and the cold plate may include any number, combination, or arrangement of power blocks 26, optical paths 23, and communication paths.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional schematic illustrates an apparatus comprising a substrate 41 having a first surface 41 a and a second surface 41 b opposite to the first surface, integrated circuits (one or more die (chip)) 33, 39 attached to the first surface of the substrate, and a cold plate 35 attached to the second surface of the substrate and comprising an electrical path (e.g., power via) 38 extending therethrough for transmitting power from a power component (e.g., POL module) 32 to an electronic integrated circuit 33 and optical paths 48 for transmitting one or more optical signals to or from a photonic integrated circuit (photonic chip, optical engine) 39. The term “substrate” as used herein may refer to an electrical board, ceramic board, or an element formed from any other suitable material. As described below, the substrate may also comprise an interposer (e.g., glass element laser patterned with waveguides and plated with metal vias to form a combined optical path and electrical path).

Bus bars 34 are shown connected to a multi-zone POL 30 (e.g., with DC power to rail voltage) with POL modules 32 attached to the cold plate 35 and configured to distribute power from the POL modules to an electronic and optical package comprising the substrate 41, the electronic integrated circuit 33 (ASIC, NPU (Network Processing Unit), die, chip), and two optical engines (photonic integrated circuits) 39 (SerDes (Serializer/Deserializer) chiplet) attached to the substrate. The electronic and optical package (also referred to herein as a substrate and die package) may comprise one or more integrated circuit, ASIC, NPU, MCM, die, chip, chiplet, processor, electronic component, or photonic component attached to one or more substrates. In the example of FIG. 3, the substrate and die package includes the substrate 41, NPU 33, optical engines 39 and FAU/CAU 40. It is to be understood that this is only an example and the substrate and die package may include any number of components in any arrangement. The FAU/CAU 40 may be attached to a lower surface of the optical engine 39 (as shown in FIG. 3) or positioned on an upper surface or side of the optical engine 39, or may be removed if optics and power are transmitted by another means. In the example of FIG. 3, a second cold plate 37 is thermally coupled to the NPU 33 through a thermal conductor (interposer) 49. The thermal conductor (or a plurality of thermal conductors) may be positioned across multiple die. One or more embodiments may also include an optional lid between the multi-chip module and the cold plate 37.

In the example shown in FIG. 3, two optical paths 48 extend through the cold plate 35 and substrate 41 and are optically coupled to a side of the photonic chips 39. As described below with respect to FIGS. 4A-4D, the optical path 48 may also be coupled to the photonic chip 39 along a lower edge of the chip. As previously described with respect to FIG. 2, optical signals may be transmitted along with power at the POL module 32.

As previously described, the cold plate 35 includes one or more power delivery blocks 36 (e.g., PWR PCB) inserted into the cold plate, with one or more electrical paths (power vias) 38 formed therein. In one or more embodiments, the power delivery blocks 36 are formed separately from the cold plate 35 and inserted into openings 46 formed in the cold plate for receiving the blocks. As discussed above, an epoxy resin or adhesive fill may be used to press and position the power delivery blocks 36 within the openings 46 in the cold plate 35.

The substrate 41 may comprise traces 43 and pads 45 embedded within or deposited on the substrate for connection with the power vias 38 and die 33, 39. Etching, deposition, bonding, or other processes may be used to form the traces and pads. The substrate 41 may be bonded to the cold plate 35 using solder processes, as well known by those skilled in the art.

It is to be understood that the components and arrangement shown in FIG. 3 is only an example and other types or number of components with different sizes and arrangement, or additional components may be used without departing from the scope of the embodiments. For example, one or more integrated circuits may be positioned on an upper surface of the cold plate 35 (side opposite the substrate 41). In one or more embodiments, the cold plate 35 may only include the optical path 48 with electrical power being supplied to the electronic integrated circuit (NPU) 33 via another path.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4D a fabrication process for the optical path is shown, in accordance with one embodiment. In this example, an interposer (e.g., glass interposer) 51 is positioned between the substrate 41 and photonic integrated circuit 39. The glass interposer 51 may include any number of optical or electrical connections between the substrate 41 and the photonic integrated circuit 39. The connections may include, for example, one or more power connections (e.g., conductive vias) 44, one or more high-speed signal connections, or any combination thereof. The interposer 51 may be formed from an optically transmissive material, such as a silicate glass, quartz, or any other suitable material. The interposer 51 may be coupled with the substrate 41 through any suitable surface mounting technique. Solder balls may be attached to the interposer 51 and couple with circuitry of the substrate 41 in a ball grid array, for example. The photonic chip 39 is attached to the interposer 51 through any suitable means (e.g., bonding). In one or more embodiments, the photonic integrated circuit 39 may be coupled with the interposer 51 as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,393,959 (“Photonic Integrated Circuit Bonded with Interposer”), issued Aug. 27, 2019, for example. An electronic integrated circuit 53 is also shown coupled to the photonic integrated circuit 39 in the example shown in FIGS. 4A-4D.

It is to be understood that the term “substrate” as used herein may refer to multiple elements (e.g., printed circuit board 41 and interposer 51) or a single element or board.

Referring first to FIG. 4A, a cross-sectional schematic is shown illustrating a first opening 50 passing through the cold plate 35 and substrate 41. As described below with respect to FIG. 4B, opening 50 is used to insert an optical path structure for communication with the photonics chip 39 along an edge of the chip. A second opening 52 is shown extending through the cold plate 35, substrate 41, and interposer 51 for receiving an optical path structure for communication with the photonic chip 39 through an upper surface of the chip. For simplification, the schematic is shown with the cross-section passing through the openings 50, 52, without the material behind the openings shown. In one or more embodiments, vertical or edge coupling may be used to attach optics to the photonic die 39. It is to be understood that while placement of two different optical paths are shown in FIGS. 4A-4D for illustration purposes, only one of the paths may be used to provide an optical path through the cold plate 35 and substrate 41. In one or more embodiments, the interposer 51 may be shortened so that the opening 52 passes through the cold plate 35 and substrate 41, and along a side the interposer 51. Also, in one or more embodiments, an optical path may extend through the cold plate 35 and along an outer edge of the substrate 41 and interposer 51 and couple with a lower side of the photonic die 39 through the use of optics redirecting light towards the lower side of the die.

The optical engines (photonic integrated circuits, photonic dies, photonic chips) 39 may be first attached to the interposer 51 and substrate 41, which is then attached to the cold plate 35. The cutouts 50, 52 may then be formed in the cold plate 35, substrate 41, and interposer 51 to accommodate the optical path. In one or more embodiments, a sleeve (not shown) may be inserted into the openings, which may be formed using any suitable process.

As shown in FIG. 4B, optical paths (optical path structures) 48 a, 48 b are positioned in the openings 52, 50 and attached to the photonic die 39 to optically couple the photonic die to the optical path. The optical path 48 a, 48 b may be attached using active alignment, precise passive alignment, UV/thermal cure epoxy, or any other suitable process. Further details of an attachment method are described below with respect to FIG. 5. Depending on where the optical connection is located on the die 39 (e.g., side or top as viewed in FIGS. 4A-4D) and whether the light comes out on a surface or from the side of the die, the optical path may attach to the surface of the die (as shown for optical path 48 a) or one of the edges (as shown for optical path 48 b). The optical paths 48 a, 48 b each comprise a waveguide 55 a, 55 b defined to confine light to a predefined path. Optical path 48 b includes a mirror (optics) 56 b for redirecting light received in one direction to a second direction. As previously noted, each optical path 48 a, 48 b may comprise other optical components such as a lens for focusing/converging or diffusing/diverging incoming light, an optical grating for splitting and diffracting light into several beams, or a filter for removing, blocking, attenuating, or polarizing certain wavelengths of light.

As shown in FIG. 4C, in order to simplify manufacturing, the optical path 48 a, 48 b may plug in or connect to another optical path (e.g., periscope/routing structure) 57 to combine all of the optical signals. Optical path structure 57 includes waveguide 55 c and mirrors 56 c, 56 d for redirecting light from the optical paths 48 a, 48 b to an optical connector 54 (FIG. 4D). Strain relief epoxy or filler material may be used to further support the optical path structures. Index matching epoxy may also be used in the optical path to improve coupling at the connections between the optical paths.

FIG. 4D illustrates the completed assembly with the POL modules 32, optical connector 54, and remaining mechanical components attached to complete the package. Optical path 57 may include additional mirrors (not shown) to redirect light into the connector 54.

It is to be understood that the optical paths shown and described herein are only examples and the structures may be configured or manufactured different than described or shown without departing from the scope of the embodiments. As previously noted, multiple optical paths may be attached or plugged together to create an optical path between an upper surface of the cold plate and the photonic die. The optical path may be formed from various materials (e.g., glass, heat-resistant polymers, etc.) using various processes. In one example, laser patterning of glass may be used to write waveguides and precisely write and etch mechanical features such as plugs for interlocking slots (described below with respect to FIG. 5). Laser patterning may also be used to pattern other glasses such as gorilla glass (chemically strengthened glass) or flexible glass. As previously noted, mirrors, lenses, or other optics may also be patterned into the optical path. An electrical via with plated metal may also be created in the laser patterned structure to allow electrical signals to be routed in the same structure as the optical signals.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of an optical path 59 with an etched mirror 61 and an opening 63 a for use in aligning the optical path with an interposer and photonic chip assembly 62. The optical path 59 includes a waveguide 60, mirror 61, and opening 63 a for receiving the alignment pin 63 b for attachment to the interposer and photonic chip assembly 62. An index matching epoxy 64 may be used to hold the plug in place and ensure coupling between the plug 63 b and the optical path (e.g., periscope) 59. Also, more than one alignment pin may be used. As previously described, active alignment may be used to attach the optical path 59 with the alignment pin 63 b used for coupling the optical path to the interposer or another optical path. For embodiments in which edge coupling may not be used, the optical path may be attached by vertical or evanescent coupling.

In one or more embodiments, optical signals and pulse power may be received from a connector inserted into a connector cage coupled to the optical path as shown in FIG. 6. As previously described with respect to FIG. 2, the fixed POL module 20 is coupled to the regulated POL module 22 via the power bridge 24. A high power (ESP, pulse power) bridge 66 connects the fixed POL 20 to a connector (connector cage) 67 positioned on a first (upper) side of cold plate 65. Optical signals and are received at optical interface 74 a and power (e.g., multi-phase pulse power) is received at electrical interfaces 74 b, 74 c). One or more optical signals are transmitted to or from the photonic chip 29 via optical path 68 passing through the cold plate 65 and substrate 71, as previously described with respect to FIG. 2. The optical path 68 optically couples the optical interface 74 a and photonic chip 29. The multi-phase pulse power is transmitted from the electrical interfaces 74 b, 74 c to the fixed POL 20 via the high-power bridge 66 and is used to power the regulated POL via the power bridge 24. In one example, the multi-phase pulse power may be transmitted from the electrical interfaces 74 b, 74 c to the high-power bridge 66 via an electrical path integrally formed with the optical path 68 or by other means through the connector (connector and connector cage) 67. As previously described with respect to FIG. 1, the multi-phase pulse power may be modified before being transmitted from the fixed POL module 20 to the regulated POL module 22.

FIG. 7 illustrates details of the optical and electrical connector, in accordance with one embodiment. As previously described, a connector 77 is coupled to the optical path 68. The connector 77 includes an optical interface 75 and electrical interfaces 76. In one or more embodiments, the optical interface 75 may be configured for mating with an MPO (Multi-fiber Push On) type connector 79, as described below with respect to FIGS. 8A and 8B. In one example, optical interface 75 comprises a photonic element (e.g., photonic die). In the example shown in FIG. 7, the electrical interfaces 76 are configured for receiving three-phase pulse power (P1, P2, P3). A hybrid cable 78 comprising one or more optical fibers and electrical wires (e.g., two optical fibers and three-pair copper) is coupled to cable connector 79 for mating with the connector 77 mounted on the cold plate.

It is to be understood that the interface configuration shown in FIG. 7 is only an example and that the connector 77 may be configured for coupling with any number of optical fibers or electrical wires (wire pairs) for receiving any number of phases of pulse power and receiving or transmitting any number of optical signals.

In one or more embodiments, the optical portion of the connector assembly may be configured as shown and described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/544,699 (“Connection Features for Electronic and Optical Packaging”), filed Aug. 19, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The connector may be modified to include electrical power input (e.g., multi-phase pulse power as described above with respect to FIG. 7).

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate an example of a clamp assembly configured for use with an MPO connector. It is to be understood that MPO is only one example and the clamp assembly may be used with other types of optical connectors (e.g., LC connector). As described below, a clamp structure of the connector assembly may be used to provide an electrical contact between the optical and electrical cable and a photonics package. The optical signals are transmitted through the optical fiber, while the clamp provides contact for electrical signals. The clamp and electrical connection may be integrated into a photonics die by using the clamp to provide an electrical contact.

FIG. 8A illustrates an exploded view of a connector assembly, in accordance with one embodiment. The connector assembly includes an optical and electrical connector, generally indicated at 80, that is mounted on the cold plate, as previously described with respect to FIG. 6, and a cable connector 86, which is used to couple the hybrid cable to the package. The optical and electrical connector 80 comprises a frame 81, a photonic element (e.g., photonic integrated circuit) 82 mounted in the frame, an optical adapter 84, and a fastener (clamp) 83 a. The photonic element 82 optically interfaces with the optical adapter 84 to carry optical signals to the photonic element 82 from the cable connector 86 via optical fibers. The photonic element 82 may include one or more waveguides connected to an optical component integrated within the photonic element. The frame 81 includes openings 85 for receiving attachment fingers 83 b (pegs) of the fastener 83 a. The openings 85 provide a mechanical connection point for the fastener 83 a including the mechanical attachment portion 83 b. As previously noted, the fastener (clamp) 83 a may provide an electrical connection between the cable connector 86 coupled to one or more wire pairs 89 and the optical and electrical connector 80.

The cable connector 86 provides an optical connection between optical fibers 88 and the optical features on the photonic element 82 and an electrical connection between electrical wires 89 in the cable and an electrical interface on the connector 80. The cable connector 86 may include alignment pins 87, which may assist in the mechanical alignment of the optical connector to the frame 81 and photonic element 82. As previously noted, the cable connector 86 may comprise an MPO connector modified to provide an electrical connection between electrical wires 89 in the hybrid cable and the connector 80. Electrical wires 89, which are received in a hybrid cable comprising the optical fibers 88 and electrical wires, may be coupled to the cable connector at various locations. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the electrical wires 89 may enter the cable connector 86 along with the optical fibers 88 or may be received on one or more edge portions of the cable connector.

The assembled optical and electrical connector 80 and cable connector 86 are shown in FIG. 8B. In this example, the electrical wires 89 are shown offset from the optical fibers 88 with an electrical connection formed between the electrical wires and the fastener 83 a. As previously noted, an MPO connector may be modified to receive the electrical wires or the electrical wires may be coupled independently to the connector 80 (e.g., electrically coupled to the clamp assembly).

It is to be understood that the connector assembly shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B is only an example and other types of optical and electrical connectors may be used, without departing from the scope of the embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an overview of a process for implementing the optics distribution system, in accordance with one embodiment. At step 90, the substrate and photonic die package are attached to the cold plate (FIGS. 4A and 9). One or more optical paths are created through the cold plate (or cold plate and substrate) (step 92) (FIGS. 4B and 9). As previously described, one or more optical path structures (e.g., periscope optical assembly) may be inserted into openings formed in the cold plate and attached to one or more other optical structures to form the optical path between the optical connector positioned on a first side (upper side) of the cold plate and the photonic die (FIGS. 4C and 4D).

It is to be understood that the process shown in FIG. 9 and described above is only an example and steps may be added, modified, combined, or reordered without departing from the scope of the embodiments.

Although the apparatus and method have been described in accordance with the embodiments shown, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that there could be variations made to the embodiments without departing from the scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. 

1: An apparatus comprising: a cold plate comprising a first side and a second side; a substrate and die package positioned on said second side of the cold plate, the substrate and die package comprising a photonic integrated circuit connected to a substrate; and an optical path extending through the cold plate and optically coupled to the photonic integrated circuit for transmitting an optical signal between the photonic integrated circuit and said first side of the cold plate; wherein the optical path is optically coupled to a connector positioned on said first side of the cold plate. 2: The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the optical path comprises a waveguide for transmitting light through the cold plate and optics for directing light to or from the photonic integrated circuit. 3: The apparatus of claim 2 further comprising additional optics for directing light from the waveguide to a connector positioned on said first side of the cold plate. 4: The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the optics comprises a mirror and one or more of the waveguide and the mirror are defined by laser patterning. 5: The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the optical path comprises an optical structure actively aligned to the photonic integrated circuit. 6: The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the optical path comprises an optical structure coupled to one or more alignment pins for aligning the optical structure with the photonic integrated circuit. 7: The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the substrate comprises a printed circuit board and a glass interposer, and wherein the optical path extends through the substrate. 8: The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the optical path comprises at least one optical fiber. 9: (canceled) 10: The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the connector comprises an optical interface and an electrical interface for connection to a cable comprising at least one optical fiber and at least one electrical wire. 11: The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the connector is configured for receiving multi-phase pulse power from the cable on a plurality of electrical wires. 12: The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the cold plate comprises an electrical path for transmitting power through the cold plate to an electronic integrated circuit attached to the substrate. 13: The apparatus of claim 12 further comprising: a first power bridge interconnecting the connector to a fixed point-of-load (POL) module; and a second power bridge interconnecting the fixed POL module to a regulated POL module positioned on said first side of the cold plate for transmitting power to said electrical path. 14: The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said first power bridge is operable to transmit multi-phase pulse power from the connector to the fixed POL module. 15: An apparatus comprising: a connector for receiving or transmitting an optical signal; an optical path coupled to the connector and a photonic integrated circuit; and a cold plate interposed between the connector and the photonic integrated circuit, wherein the optical path extends through the cold plate; wherein the connector is further configured for receiving electrical power and wherein the cold plate comprises an electrical path for transmitting the electrical power through the cold plate to an electronic integrated circuit. 16: The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the electronic integrated circuit and the photonic integrated circuit are mounted on a substrate attached to the cold plate. 17: The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the optical path comprises a waveguide for transmitting light through the cold plate and optics for directing light to or from the photonic integrated circuit. 18: The apparatus of claim 17 further comprising additional optics for directing light from the waveguide to the connector. 19: The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the connector comprises a clamp assembly for attaching a cable to the connector and providing an electrical path to the connector. 20: The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the connector is configured for creating an optical connection with at least one optical fiber in a hybrid cable and receiving multi-phase pulse power from the hybrid cable. 21: A method comprising: attaching a substrate and die package to a cold plate, the substrate and die package comprising at least one photonic die connected thereto; and creating an optical path through the cold plate and the substrate; wherein an optical signal is transmitted to or from the photonic die through the optical path in the cold plate and the substrate, the optical path configured for optical connection with a connector positioned on a side of the cold plate opposite the substrate and die package. 22: The method of claim 21 further comprising attaching the connector to the cold plate and optically coupling the connector to the optical path. 23: The method of claim 21 further comprising inserting into the cold plate a power delivery block comprising an electrical path extending through the cold plate. 24: The method of claim 21 wherein the substrate comprises a printed circuit board and a glass interposer. 25: The method of claim 21 wherein creating said optical path comprises creating an opening in the cold plate and the substrate and inserting a waveguide for transmitting light through the cold plate and the substrate and optics for directing light to or from the photonic die. 26: The method of claim 25 further comprising connecting the optical path to another optical path mounted on the cold plate for directing the optical signal to a connector positioned on the cold plate. 